DOJ coordinates with DILG on criminal raps vs. Makati mayor, supporters

Binay supporters attack policemen at the Makati City Hall (screenshot from ABS-CBN footage)

MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) is now coordinating with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) for the filing of criminal cases against Makati City Jejomar Erwin “Junjun” Binay, Jr. and his supporters in connection with the “chaos” at the Makati City Hall on Tuesday morning.

In a text message, DOJ Secretary Leila M. De Lima said that the attack on the police of the male supporters of the Makati mayor was seen on live video that was aired over the national television.

De Lima added that she would also recommend to the DILG the filing of possible criminal cases against Mayor Binay for defying the suspension order issued by the Office of the Ombudsman (Ombudsman).

The suspension order was in connection with the administrative case involving the alleged “overpriced” construction of the Makati Science High School Building.

The DOJ Secretary said that the blatant disrespect by the mayor and his supporters to the Ombudsman, DILG and the Philippine National Police (PNP) should not continue.

De Lima pointed out that a public official cannot treat the territory he is governing as his own “kingdom” and he cannot just act as if he is a king because the local government is still a part of the Republic of the Philippines that must follow the law.